Press Releases

Governor Chafee Names Theresa Murray as RIEMA Executive Director

Cranston, RI - Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced his appointment of Theresa C. Murray as Executive Director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA). She replaces J. David Smith, who retired in June to pursue a career in academia.

"As we saw with the floods of 2010, disasters or crises can strike Rhode Island at any time with little or no notice," Governor Chafee said. "With that in mind, it is essential that RIEMA's Executive Director be a proven leader who can perform under the most trying circumstances. Theresa Murray certainly fits that description. Throughout her extensive law enforcement and emergency management career, she has demonstrated the ability to accomplish her objectives with excellence and to motivate those around her. I am confident that Theresa Murray will ensure that RIEMA is not only prepared to protect Rhode Islanders in any possible scenario, but that it is proactive in its emergency management initiatives, as well."

"I look forward to enthusiastically welcoming Theresa Murray, a proven, capable and dedicated public servant, to join us under the umbrella of the Emergency Management Advisory Council as we ensure Rhode Island is always well prepared for emergency situations," said Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts, Chair of the Emergency Management Advisory Council.

"I am honored that Governor Chafee has chosen me to lead the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency," Murray said. "As the state's coordinating agency in the event of any emergency or disaster, RIEMA has a significant role in the safety and security of all Rhode Islanders. This is a responsibility I will take seriously, as I know the many outstanding employees of RIEMA do, as well."

Murray most recently served as Regional Catastrophic Planner for the Boston, Massachusetts Office of Emergency Management, and, previously, as RIEMA's Regional Planning Coordinator. From 1984 – 2009, Murray served as a Special Agent in the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, rising to the position of Assistant Special Agent in Charge in the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Education.

Murray, the Boston Chapter President and former National First Vice President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, maintains the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation, and holds numerous certifications from the Department of Homeland Security and a Top Secret security clearance. She has undergone extensive professional training in law enforcement leadership and management.

A resident of Tiverton, Murray received a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Salve Regina University in Newport.